As the festive season approaches, the Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, Tennessee, transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a plethora of holiday activities and sights that make it a must-visit during Christmas 2020. With its grand atriums, cascading waterfalls, and acres of lush indoor gardens, Opryland Hotel becomes an idyllic setting for holiday cheer. Here are five holiday highlights that you should not miss if you're planning a visit to this enchanting location.
A Million Points of Light Display
Nestled within the resort’s various indoor and outdoor gardens, the Million Points of Light display is a spectacle of brilliance. Over 2 million lights illuminate the hotel, creating a magical atmosphere that is both mesmerizing and breathtaking. Here’s what you can look forward to:
- The Grand Atrium - This is the heart of the light display, where the gardens are transformed into a shimmering wonderland. Visitors can stroll along paths lined with twinkling lights and even encounter light-enhanced wildlife figures.
- The Outdoor Riverwalk - Experience the lights from the water with a boat ride along the resort’s indoor Delta River, seeing the lights reflect off the water for an enchanting experience.
- Lighted Pathways - Follow the lit paths through the atriums, where lights create tunnels and archways, guiding you through the holiday magic.
🌟 Note: Be sure to visit during the evenings to see the lights in all their splendor.
Ice Skating Rink
The Magnificent Mile of Christmas at Opryland Hotel features an ice skating rink, offering a classic holiday activity that’s fun for all ages. Here are the key attractions:
- Outdoor Skating Experience - Skate under the stars with the resort’s outdoor rink surrounded by festive holiday decorations.
- Professional Skate Rentals - Skates of all sizes are available for rent, ensuring everyone can join in the fun, even if they’re new to skating.
- Open Skate Sessions - Regular sessions are held, with times and dates listed on the hotel’s calendar, making it easy to plan your visit.
❄️ Note: Dress warmly as the weather in Nashville can be quite chilly during the Christmas season.
A Country Christmas Dinner Show
Experience the unique blend of Southern hospitality, gourmet cuisine, and live entertainment at the Country Christmas Dinner Show. Here’s what you’ll enjoy:
- Holiday Cuisine - A festive feast with traditional Southern dishes like ham, mashed potatoes, collard greens, and hot biscuits, all prepared with holiday flair.
- Live Christmas Music - A talented cast of Nashville performers sings beloved Christmas carols, original country Christmas tunes, and shares holiday stories.
- Interactive Fun - Audiences often get pulled into sing-alongs, dance-alongs, and even on-stage skits, creating a joyful, community atmosphere.
Opryland’s Christmas Spectacular
One of the key holiday highlights, Opryland’s Christmas Spectacular is a must-see production that blends dazzling choreography, storytelling, and holiday magic:
- Storytelling - Follow the journey of a family during the Christmas season, celebrating the warmth and togetherness of the holidays.
- Theming and Sets - Elaborate sets, imaginative costumes, and state-of-the-art lighting effects create a captivating backdrop.
- Performance Schedule - The show runs multiple times daily, allowing for flexible visiting times.
The Holiday Markets
The magic of Opryland’s Christmas also extends to its festive holiday markets where visitors can shop for unique gifts and local crafts:
- Artisan Crafts - Local artisans and craftspeople sell handcrafted items, from ornaments to custom jewelry.
- Themed Goodies - Stalls offering festive treats like hot cocoa, gingerbread cookies, and seasonal jams and jellies.
- Festive Atmosphere - The markets are alive with holiday music, seasonal scents, and a cozy, inviting environment perfect for holiday shopping.
🎁 Note: These markets are excellent opportunities to find distinctive gifts that embody the spirit of Nashville's holiday traditions.
In these unprecedented times, Opryland Hotel has adapted its holiday offerings to ensure the safety and well-being of its guests while maintaining the festive atmosphere that has made it a beloved destination. With socially distanced activities, enhanced cleaning protocols, and modified events, your holiday experience can still be one of wonder and joy.
From the Million Points of Light to the heartwarming Country Christmas Dinner Show, Opryland Hotel during the 2020 Christmas season promises memories to last a lifetime. Whether you're there to embrace the nostalgia of the holidays, create new traditions, or simply marvel at the beauty of the season, there's an enchantment for everyone at this Nashville gem.
Is it safe to visit Opryland Hotel during the holidays this year?
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Opryland Hotel has implemented several safety measures to ensure a safe holiday experience, including enhanced cleaning, social distancing, and capacity limits on events and attractions. Masks are required, and temperature checks are in place.
Can I still experience the lights if I don’t stay at the hotel?
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Yes, day passes are available which allow guests to explore the hotel’s gardens and public areas, including the Million Points of Light display. However, some activities and shows might be exclusive to hotel guests.
What’s the best time of day to visit Opryland Hotel during the holidays?
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Evening visits allow you to see the lights in their full glory, but visiting in the morning can also be less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of the holiday decorations and activities.
